U.S. & World

This pattern has been trending since the late 1990s, but nobody is sure why. Walter Molony, spokesperson for The National Association of Realtors speculates that "it may be as simple as most guys don’t get serious about housing until they meet the right woman."

In addition, women are increasingly becoming a household's primary earner. Single women are also reportedly more proactive in planning for their financial future, considering a home purchase a smart addition to their portfolio.

Still, many women are wary to enter the home buying process. “Qualifying for a mortgage — that is probably the scariest part for single women,” said Jeanie Douthitt, an agent with Private Label Realty. "If more people were out there helping single women, that 20 percent would double, I promise you."